Looking for the best starting class in Path of Exile 2? ONE Esports has got you covered.
One of the toughest decisions you must make when starting an action role-playing game (ARPG) is what class to choose, as it can shape your first impressions about the game.
Path of Exile 2 early access is one of the most anticipated ARPG releases since Diablo 4. But whether you’re a veteran or a newcomer excited to check what the fuss is all about, you must also come face-to-face with that daunting choice.
As such, this ONE Esports guide highlights the best starting class in Path of Exile 2 and why it could be perfect for you.
Which Path of Exile 2 class would be perfect for you?
To recap, PoE 2 early access lets you choose from six distinct classes. These are Monk, Mercenary, Ranger, Sorceress, Warrior, and Witch.
The best starting classes would be Mercenary and Sorceress.
Why Mercenary is the best starting class in PoE 2
Mercenary is a mid to long-range shooter class. This class pushed Grinding Gear Games to change the fundamentals of how an APRG works on a PC. For this class to function efficiently, the studio opted for WASD control mapping instead of a traditional point-and-click system.
Mercenary feels like it was designed to cater to the fans of the looter-shooter genre, and as someone who plays a ton of Destiny 2 and The Division 2, I find it quite appealing.
Mercenary’s crossbow has access to various special ammo types that allow it to function like a traditional gun.
Rapid Shot has a high fire rate and is ideal for clearing ads. Burst Shot is like a shotgun that deals massive close-range damage, essential for taking down bosses and elites. Power Shot is like a sniper rifle, allowing you to eliminate enemies from a distance.
In addition to traditional ammo types, Mercenary has access to a myriad of elemental ammunitions. You can unleash a Glacial Bolt to slow or freeze enemies, or fire an Explosive Shot to set everything ablaze.
Overall, Mercenary emphasizes mobility and diligent mixing of various ammo types to yield a satisfying and rewarding outcome. Combine these with unique, build-altering loot, and Mercenary seems like a very enticing option to quench that looter-shooter itch.
Why Sorceress is the best starting class in PoE 2
Sorceress is the most flashy class in any ARPG, and Path of Exile 2 looks to be no different in this regard.
While every PoE 2 early access class has the potential to cause elemental shenanigans, Sorcereress can perhaps provide the pinnacle experience by allowing you to create a blazing wall of fire, covering the ground in lightning sparks, and freezing enemies left and right all at the same time.
If you’re a newcomer, Sorcerer may seem like the most dopamine-inducing option, thanks to its wide variety of elemental repertoire.
It’s also simpler to manage than Witch and Monk, and arguably more appealing to play than Warrior.
Coincidentally, Grinding Gear Games recently published a snippet of a potential Ball Lightning Sorceress build in action, complete with support spells, buff, and a unique Lightning Staff that in itself is tantalizing to pursue Sorceress over anything else.
READ MORE: How long to beat Path of Exile 2 campaign?
